Frequently asked questions
Is the quality any good—and how can it be so affordable?
Absolutely. MEL with Purpose has been developed by PRI (Policy Research Institute), a Swiss-based evaluation consulting firm established in 2015, with a team bringing decades of global experience in evaluation and learning across the development and humanitarian sectors. The content has been quality assured by Tom Ling, former President of the European Evaluation Society and Head of Evaluation at RAND Europe.
The course is priced to make it accessible to local organisations, not large donor budgets—because strengthening MEL capacity across contexts matters more than corporate margins.
Who are these courses for?
MEL with Purpose offers a pathway of courses for development aid and humanitarian organisations: one course for general staff, one for managers, and one for senior management/directors. Each course is tailored to the needs and responsibilities of that specific group, so everyone can contribute meaningfully to MEL without needing to be a MEL expert. MEL specialists can also take the courses if they want the whole organisation to share a common MEL language and practical approach.
Why should MEL specialists take this course too?
Even for experienced MEL professionals, MEL with Purpose offers value. It provides a practical, field-tested perspective on making MEL more useful and actionable—beyond frameworks and indicators. It also helps specialists communicate MEL concepts more clearly to colleagues and partners, turning MEL from an isolated function into a shared practice across the organisation. When everyone takes the course, it creates a shared language and understanding of results, making collaboration smoother and ensuring that insights are actually used in decision-making.
Why should I want others to understand MEL if I’m already the MEL expert?
Because when your colleagues understand MEL, your work has more impact. Rather than chasing data or explaining frameworks, you can focus on deeper analysis and strategic learning. When others grasp the basics—how to set indicators, interpret results, and use findings—MEL becomes a shared responsibility. That creates stronger programmes, better evidence, and ultimately, a far greater appreciation for the role MEL plays in achieving results.
Why should everyone—not just MEL specialists—learn about MEL?
Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning (MEL) isn’t just for technical experts. It’s a way of thinking and working that helps everyone in an organisation understand what’s working, what’s not, and how to tell a credible story about results. When staff across functions speak a shared MEL language, project performance, reporting, and learning all improve.
How do these courses help organisations become learning organisations?
Our pathway supports teams and leaders to build a shared MEL mindset and practice. By completing the courses across all role levels, organisations can link learning, reflection, and evidence-based decision-making as part of their regular work culture.
Can individuals enrol, or is it only for organisations?
Both! While our courses are designed to help whole organisations strengthen their MEL culture and become true learning organisations, anyone can enrol independently. Individual learners—consultants, freelancers, or professionals seeking to upskill—are very welcome.
How long do I have access to the courses?
You have access to the course or courses you enrol in for 6 months from the date of enrolment. During this time, you can revisit all videos, tools, and resources as often as you like.
Do I get access to updates?
Yes. Any updates or improvements made to the course content during your 6-month access period are automatically available to you at no extra cost.
Is the content quality assured?
All content is quality assured and peer reviewed by respected, well known MEL experts with extensive experience in development and humanitarian settings.
Are there live sessions?
Yes. We host a live Q&A session approximately every 6 weeks where learners from all courses can bring their questions, discuss real cases, and get direct feedback.
Do you offer topical seminars?
We organise ad hoc online seminars on current and topic-sensitive MEL issues (for example, emerging methods or crisis-related adaptations).
Is there in-person support for organisations?
Yes. For organisations that need additional help, we can provide tailored virtual or in-person support, such as facilitated workshops, team clinics, or customised coaching linked to one or more of the courses.
Can a whole organisation enrol as a learning programme?
Absolutely. Many organisations enrol staff at multiple levels—general, manager, and senior—for a structured learning journey that strengthens their shared MEL practice and language. We can also help you align the learning pathway with your organisational MEL framework.
Do you offer discounts for teams or bulk purchases?
We offer a 10% discount for bulk enrolments of 20 or more licences, making it easier for teams and organisations to enrol staff, managers, and leaders together. You can contact us for a tailored quote based on your group size and chosen course combinations.
How do I buy if I can't pay with a credit card?
If you or your organization are unable to complete a purchase via credit card, we offer Manual Bank Transfer (Wire/ACH/SEPA) as an alternative.
The process is simple:
1. Request an Invoice: Send an email to mel@pri.swiss stating which course you want and the number of licenses you need. Subject of the email should be: Bank transfer purchase
2. Receive Bank Details: We will send you a formal invoice containing our bank’s IBAN, SWIFT, or ACH routing information.
3. Transfer Funds: Once your finance department processes the payment, please send us a quick note or a copy of the transfer receipt.
4. Immediate Setup: As soon as the transfer is confirmed, we will manually enroll your team or provide you with "Seat Credits" to distribute to your staff.
Note: Manual transfers typically take 3–5 business days to clear. If you need your team to start today, simply email us your official bank confirmation, and we can often grant early access.
Can I share my course access or licence with others?
No, each enrolment provides one personal licence for an individual learner. Courses and programs are designed for active personal engagement, ensuring that each participant can reflect, contribute, and complete the certification in their own name.
To maintain content quality and protect individual learning records, course access is linked to your personal account. Licences may not be shared or transferred between users.
For security and data integrity, the system allows access from up to two devices (for example, a computer and a tablet). If the system detects access from multiple additional devices, it will automatically log out extra sessions to keep your account secure.
We appreciate your understanding—this helps ensure everyone receives the full benefit of the course experience and accurate certification for their own learning journey.
Can individuals access the same materials as organisations?
Yes. Individual learners receive the same high-quality content, resources, and tools used in our organisational pathways. You can apply learning directly in your current workplace or use it to strengthen your consulting and project roles.
What email should I use for general questions?
For general enquiries about the school or which course is right for which group, please contact us at mel@pri.swiss
How do I get help with course access or certificates?
For all learner support (access issues, certificates, questions about course materials), please write to mel@pri.swiss
How can organisations discuss tailored support or contracts?
For contracts, invoicing, or bespoke organisational support across multiple courses, please contact us via info@pri.swiss to request a short consultation.